Plug-in hybrids combine petrol, diesel or alternative fueled engines with a battery and electric motor. Plugging into the mains electricity, allows for a longer range of electric-only power. The batteries have a greater storage capacity than an existing hybrid. Good for commuting, and short journeys as when in electric mode there are zero tailpipe emissions.

Advantages

• zero emission when driving on batteries
• fuel efficient in traffic
• easy to drive
• cheap to run if doing regular 10/15 mile commutes
• tax efficient

Disadvantages

• relatively expensive
• fuel economy not very good on motorway journeys
• complex to maintain
• battery life concerns
• embedded energy used in battery manufacturing
• resale value uncertainty

See cost per mile calculations

Compare the annual running costs of plug-in hybrids to conventional diesel and petrol cars.